Chongqing revisited through my lens

By Bruce Connolly | chinadaily.com.cn | Updated: 2017-04-14 10:32

Yuzhong's location, effectively resembling a peninsula enclosed by two major rivers, presented serious challenges for development and planning resulting in world-leading infrastructure projects. Bridge building started with Niujiatou Jialing Qiao connecting with Jiangbei in 1958. Changjiang Bridge opened in 1977. Having walked across the latter in 1994 I returned by metro to Qixinggang, a bustling local area. Narrow paths led down to tree-covered cliffs above Shibanpo with a view not only of the bridge but of the rise of a modern Chongqing spreading across Nan'an on the far banks. Since my first visit Chongqing has become a 'World Capital of Bridges' with around 15 Changjiang and 14 Jialingjiang crossings within the urban area alone. They are aesthetic engineering masterpieces, several being twin-decked carrying both road and metro. Passing beneath them river freighters continue to carry minerals and containers downriver as far as Shanghai.

Chongqing Changjiang Bridge 1994. [Photo taken by Bruce Connolly]

Yuzhong spreads along a geological syncline dipping 'gently' towards Chaotianmen but steeply down to both rivers. Renmin Park, close to Jiefang Square is a series of terraces, linked by stairs, dropping southeast towards the Changjiang - a great place for observing everyday life or relaxing over tea.

Towards Chaotianmen and overlooking the Jialingjiang is Hongya Cave - an extensive tourist development, resembling a mountain village. Rooftop terraces provide panoramic views of busy river life and of Qiansimen Bridge with metro trains regularly crossing on the lower deck of this massive red metal structure to the newer area of Jiangbei that includes the iconic riverside Grand Theatre (2009). Dominating the immediate skyline is on-going construction of Raffles City which will soon emerge as a futuristic symbol, a 21st century Chaotianmen gateway to contemporary Chongqing.